Natasha Kai
As an under-21 international, forward Natasha Kai scored 12 goals and helped the USA win the 2004 Nordic Cup. But she made an even greater step in her career at the Algarve Cup in March when she made history by becoming the first Hawaiian to win a cap for the full US Women's National team. After coming on as a substitute, the 22-year-old scored on both her debut match against Denmark and the following game against France. Here she tells Fair Game about her debut, her goals, her new 'family' and her many tattoos.
How did you feel making your debut - and history?
There were things flying through my head. I was nervous, happy, excited, but as soon as I stepped on the field I left all that behind. It's overwhelming but at the same time it's my job, I need to be ready to help the team out.
Were you happy to have scored in your first two games?
I was just so excited to help my team win and get into the final. I love scoring and our team loves to score. I'm here for a reason and when it's my turn to do my job I want to do it well, whether it's to score or make opportunities for other people to score.
As a new face, were you nervous coming into the team?
It was kind of easy because I'd played with some of the girls in the U-21's but with the older girls I was kind of nervous. They are a family and I'm a new person coming into the family and it's my job to represent myself well and show them I can contribute to this team. I'm lucky, they welcomed me with open hearts.
Do you think your performances on the pitch helped?
It's a plus that I performed well so they have confidence in me and can trust me.
Have you made any friends among the squad?
I try and get on with all of them. A good relationship on and off the field is going to help a lot.
Is this level different from anything you've done before?
Each step has been, from high school to college to U-21's to this. The level of play and intensity is bigger and you grow as a player and have to make that jump and be willing to take things from every step you take up.
You suffered a bad shoulder injury last year, was that frustrating?
It was hard to sit on the side and watch my team practice. I hate not being able to touch a ball and run around. I was in a sling with pins all over it but it motivated me to make my arm strong so I could be ready to jump back on the field.
Do you think about it now you're back playing?
No. If I break it again I can repair it again. I'm going to step on the field and play my heart out no matter what.
Did you ever think you would come this far so soon?
It's kind of crazy. I never thought I would be on this team, especially coming from Hawaii. I'm just grateful that coach Greg had faith in me and saw things in me that I didn't see in myself.
What makes you a good striker?
People tell me I'm fast and good in the air. I don't think about it, I love the game and wake up every morning telling myself that I need to do good and help the team.
Who is your perfect strike partner?
Abby Wambach. She's incredible and knows the game so well. I like the way she goes at it 110 per cent every time. It's crazy, I really feel so comfortable having her up top with me.
Do you observe any superstitions before playing?
I need to wear a wristband, any wristband. I didn't bring mine to the Algarve but Christie Welsh let me use hers. I've been playing with one since my freshman year and feel naked without it.
Do you get fed up with people asking you about your tattoos?
Oh no. People look at me and are like, 'Woah, she's intimidating', but for me that's the outside and what really counts is inside.
Do they have special meanings?
Most of them do. The one on my ankle I designed myself and it has my initials on it. On my foot I have the Hawaiian Islands. On the bottom of my back is my last name. I have Love and Courage in Japanese writing on my back. On my shoulder is a Gemini, my zodiac sign. I've one on my ribs which I wrote myself. It says appreciate the moment, the most precious treasure on earth is my heart, when I share it with you, protect it as if it were your own. It's a reminder that I'm a strong person and I know and a lot of people around me know I'm a good person.
Any plans for any more?
I plan on getting Respect and Trust on my wrists.
Did people in Hawaii take notice of your debut?
A lot of people read the game on-line and my dad said: 'Everyone is so proud, they always come up and ask us how you're doing. It's a blessing to have you as a daughter'.
How do you think people will react to you there now?
If they recognise me and want to talk to me I'll stop and talk. If they want my autograph I'll sign it. To them I'm someone way different maybe, but to me I'm the same person.
What will it mean to the people there?
I feel like I'm opening doors for the younger generation. Not only girls and boys from Hawaii, but any kid that has the desire to go to the next level. It's easier said than done but if you work hard and put your mind and heart into it, anything is possible.
NAT’S STATS:
DOB: 22.5.83
Birthplace: Kahuku, Hawaii
Weight: 138 lbs
Height: 5'7
Goals: 2
Appearances: 3
Previous clubs: Leahy, Kailuaaa
Favorite film: Sister Act II
Favorite food: Ice Cream
Favorite place: My house in Kahuku
Favorite music: It depends on my mood. Before a game, hip hop and R'n'B; before I go to sleep, Hawaiian music
Little known fact: Natasha had a tree frog in college called Perja.